Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis
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Treatment

How is SCFE treated?

Once SCFE is diagnosed, your doctor will probably refer your child to an orthopedic surgeon (a doctor who fixes bone problems). Surgery is usually the treatment of choice. It's important to get treatment right away.

The most common treatment of SCFE is called "in-situ fixation." With this treatment, the bone is held in place with a single central screw. This screw keeps the thigh bone from slipping and will close the growth plate. The results of this treatment are good. It has few complications.

Other surgical treatments (including in-situ fixation with more than one screw) are used less often. Ask your doctor to explain the potential benefits and risks of the treatment options.

When can my child get back to normal activities?

Getting better takes time. For 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, your child will need to use crutches to walk. Then your child can slowly get back into normal activities, possibly including running and contact sports.

Will my child recover completely?

If SCFE is caught early, there is a good chance for full recovery, especially if SCFE is stable. Some children who have had SCFE may get arthritis in the hip later in life.